Comet D/1770 L1 (Lexell) is an object whose orbit features a relatively short period, low inclination, and is controlled by Jupiter's gravitational effects. NASA JPL has classified Lexell as a "Near Earth Asteroid" due to its orbit's proximity to Earth, but it is not considered potentially hazardous because computer simulations have not indicated any imminent likelihood of future collision.
Lexell orbits the sun every 2,050 days (5.61 years), coming as close as 0.67 AU and reaching as far as 5.63 AU from the sun. Its orbit is highly elliptical.
Orbital simulations conducted by NASA JPL's CNEOS do not show any close approaches to Earth.
Lexell's orbit is determined by observations dating back to June 15, 1770. It was last officially observed on Oct. 3, 1770. The IAU Minor Planet Center records 130 observations used to determine its orbit.
The position of D/1770 L1 (Lexell) is indicated by a ◯ pink circle. Note that the object may not be in your current field of view. Use the controls below to adjust position, location, and time.